Who he actually he played against while in those arenas? Not so memorable, according to a transcript published by Chinese media outlet, NetEase. Prior to Game 2 of the Finals, a journalist interviewed McGrady, leading off with the question that every Chinese NBA fan wants to know: Is there anybody in China who has a shot to play in The League one day? Here’s what was said, generally (the interview was conducted in English and translated into Chinese, which means I have the weird task of translating back into English — so this won’t be exactly what he said): Journalist: Tracy, this past season you played in the CBA. Which Chinese players do you think have the potential to play in the NBA? McGrady: None. Not one. Journalist: What about Wang Zhelin? McGrady: I don’t know who that is. Journalist: That young Chinese player… He’s tall, he plays for Fujian. McGrady: I don’t know. I can’t remember. Journalist: The really tall one, taller than 2.13 meters. McGrady: I don’t know him. China has a lot of tall young guys. I can’t remember.

And yet, it is kind of a biggie. Wang is the most hyped youngster in China right now and is considered by some to have a shot at playing in the NBA someday down the line. Oh, and his absence from the national team last year caused the Chinese internet to almost break. The worst part? Forget not thinking Wang is good enough to play in the NBA –McGrady doesn’t even remember who dude is. That doesn’t exactly reflect well on the state of Chinese basketball, current or future.